Temperature-controlled enclosures and temperature control system using the same

ABSTRACT

A self-closing cable feed-through module is connected to an outer surface of the chamber. The feed-through module includes a first portion and a second portion, wherein cables are fed through the first and second portions into the chamber in a first position and the first and second portions form a leak tight seal around the cables in a second position.

RELATED APPLICATIONS

This application claims the benefit of U.S. Provisional Application Ser.No. 60/784,044, filed Mar. 20, 2006, and U.S. Provisional ApplicationSer. No. 60/784,745, filed Mar. 22, 2006, the contents of each beingincorporated herein by reference, in their entirety.

FIELD OF THE INVENTION

This invention relates generally to a temperature-controlled enclosurefor connecting to a source of temperature-controlled fluid, such as air,and a system including the enclosure and the source. This inventionrelates in particular to a temperature-controlled chamber that includesthermal insulation, a means of directing air to a device being tested,an exhausting system and a self-closing cable feed-through module.

DESCRIPTION OF THE RELATED ART

There are many manufacturers of standard temperature chambers. Ingeneral, in such chambers, air is circulated in a closed loop with a fanor blower directing the air over a heating and/or cooling coil tocondition the temperature of the air before it enters a test area. Theair then exits the test area and is again directed over the heatingand/or cooling coil to condition the temperature of the air before itreenters the test area. These steps are repeated. The standardtemperature chambers simply circulate the air with no method fordirecting the air to the device being tested. In addition, the standardtemperature chambers use a metal (or other material) liner inside thechamber. The metal liner acts as a thermal load and significantlyincreases the time to transition between set temperatures.

SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION

According to the invention, source of temperature-controlled fluid isused as an open-loop temperature source for controlling the temperaturewithin a temperature chamber. The source is either attached directly tothe inlet of the temperature chamber or there is a flexible air transferline, i.e., a flexible extender, that connects a source head to thetemperature chamber inlet. The temperature-controlled air exhausts outof the temperature chamber. By using the standard source as thetemperature source, it is possible to connect the temperature-controlledair source (one at a time) to several different temperature chamberconfigurations, thus providing an economical solution when severaldifferent temperature chamber configurations are required. In addition,the source can be used as a temperature source for temperature testingvarious devices without attaching to a temperature chamber.

The present invention includes a family of temperature chambers for usewith the source, i.e., the open-loop temperature source.

A feature of the present invention is to provide atemperature-controlled enclosure with a highly efficient thermalinsulation design that provides overall improvement in thermalperformance by minimizing heat loss and reducing thermal loads.

Another feature of the present invention is to provide atemperature-controlled enclosure with a highly efficient andfield-changeable method of air distribution for improved thermalresponse for specific testing applications.

Another feature of the present invention is to provide atemperature-controlled enclosure with an air exhaust system foroptimizing temperature uniformity.

Another feature of the present invention is to provide atemperature-controlled enclosure with a self-closing cable feed-throughmodule.

One or more of the above features are included in each of thetemperature chamber embodiments of the present invention.

Another feature of the present invention is to provide a temperaturecontrol system which incorporates one or more of the above features.

The present invention is directed to a temperature control system forcontrolling temperature of a device. The temperature control systemincludes a chamber in which the device can be located, atemperature-controlled source connected to the chamber for providing atemperature-controlled fluid to the chamber to control temperature inthe chamber, and thermal insulation material formed on side surfaces ofthe chamber.

In one embodiment, the temperature control system further includes auniversal manifold adaptor for directing the temperature-controlledfluid directly to the device. In another embodiment, interchangeablemanifolds are attachable to the universal manifold to direct the fluidto the device. In one embodiment, a manifold includes a singlehorizontal tube with multiple small holes for discharge of the fluid. Inanother embodiment, a manifold includes a plurality of horizontal tubeswith multiple small holes for discharge of the fluid. In anotherembodiment, a manifold has a shower-head configuration to provideuniform distribution of the fluid. In another embodiment, a manifoldincludes a baffle system.

In one embodiment, the temperature control system further includes anexhaust system for exhausting the fluid from the chamber. In anotherembodiment, the exhaust system includes a plurality of exhaust portsconnected internal to the chamber and a single outlet port for allowingthe fluid to exit the chamber. In another embodiment, the exhaust systemincludes a plurality of exhaust ports connected internal to the chamberand multiple outlet ports for allowing the fluid to exit the chamber. Inanother embodiment, the exhaust system includes an exhaust portcentrally located in the bottom of the chamber and an outlet port forallowing the fluid to exit the rear of the chamber. In anotherembodiment, a location of an exhaust is selectable by a user.

In one embodiment, the chamber has a hood configuration. In anotherembodiment, a thin layer of silicone is bonded to the surface of thethermal insulation material.

In one embodiment, the chamber has a clamshell configuration in which atop portion of the chamber is connected to a bottom portion of thechamber such that the top portion is opened in order to load the devicebeing tested into the chamber. In another embodiment, the thermalinsulation material is positioned between an outer shell of the chamberand an inner liner of the chamber.

In one embodiment, the chamber has a front-loader configuration in whicha front portion of the chamber is connected to a rear portion of thechamber such that the front portion is opened in order to load thedevice into the chamber. In another embodiment, the thermal insulationmaterial is positioned between an outer shell of the front-loader and aninner liner of the chamber.

In one embodiment, a self-closing cable feed-through module connected toan outer surface of the chamber. The module includes a first portion anda second portion, wherein cables are fed through the first and secondportions into the chamber in a first position of the module and thefirst and second portions form a leak tight seal around the cables in asecond position of the module.

In one embodiment, the fluid is air.

In accordance with another aspect of the invention, the invention isdirected to a temperature chamber. The temperature chamber includes achamber in which a device can be located. The chamber is connectable toa temperature-controlled source for providing a temperature-controlledfluid to the chamber to control temperature of the chamber. Thetemperature chamber further includes a universal manifold adaptor fordirecting the temperature-controlled fluid directly to the device.

In one embodiment, interchangeable manifolds are attachable to theuniversal manifold to direct fluid to the device. In one embodiment, amanifold includes a single horizontal tube with multiple small holes fordischarge of the fluid. In another embodiment, a manifold includes aplurality of horizontal tubes with multiple small holes for discharge ofthe fluid. In another embodiment, a manifold has a shower-headconfiguration to provide uniform distribution of the fluid. In anotherembodiment, a manifold includes a baffle system.

In one embodiment, the temperature chamber further includes an exhaustsystem for exhausting the fluid from the chamber. In one embodiment, theexhaust system includes a plurality of exhaust ports connected internalto the chamber and a single outlet port for allowing the fluid to exitthe chamber. In another embodiment, the exhaust system includes aplurality of exhaust ports connected internal to the chamber andmultiple outlet ports for allowing the fluid to exit the chamber. Inanother embodiment, the exhaust system includes an exhaust portcentrally located in the bottom of the chamber and an outlet port forallowing the fluid to exit the rear of the chamber. In anotherembodiment, a location of an exhaust is selectable by a user.

In one embodiment, the chamber has a hood configuration. In anotherembodiment, thermal insulation material is formed on side surfaces ofthe chamber, wherein a thin layer of silicone is bonded to the surfaceof the thermal insulation material.

In one embodiment, the chamber has a clamshell configuration in which atop portion of the chamber is connected to a bottom portion of thechamber such that the top portion is opened in order to load the deviceinto the chamber. In another embodiment, thermal insulation material isformed on side surfaces of the chamber, wherein the thermal insulationmaterial is positioned between an outer shell of the chamber and aninner liner of the chamber.

In one embodiment, the chamber has a front-loader configuration in whicha front portion of the chamber is connected to a rear portion of thechamber such that the front portion is opened in order to load thedevice into the chamber. In another embodiment, thermal insulationmaterial is formed on side surfaces of the chamber, wherein the thermalinsulation material is positioned between an outer shell of thefront-loader and an inner liner of the chamber.

In one embodiment, the temperature chamber further includes aself-closing cable feed-through module connected to an outer surface ofthe chamber. The module includes a first portion and a second portion,wherein cables are fed through the first and second portions into thechamber in a first position of the module and the first and secondportions form a leak tight seal around the cables in a second positionof the module.

In one embodiment, the fluid is air.

In accordance with another aspect of the invention, the invention isdirected to a temperature chamber. The temperature chamber includes achamber in which a device can be located. The chamber is connectable toa temperature-controlled source for providing a temperature-controlledfluid to the chamber to control temperature of the chamber. Thetemperature chamber further includes a self-closing cable feed-throughmodule connected to an outer surface of the chamber. The module includesa first portion and a second portion, wherein cables are fed through thefirst and second portions into the chamber in a first position of themodule and the first and second portions form a leak tight seal aroundthe cables in a second position of the module.

In one embodiment, the temperature chamber further includes an exhaustsystem for exhausting the fluid from the chamber. In one embodiment, theexhaust system includes a plurality of exhaust ports connected internalto the chamber and a single outlet port for allowing the fluid to exitthe chamber. In another embodiment, the exhaust system includes aplurality of exhaust ports connected internal to the chamber andmultiple outlet ports for allowing the fluid to exit the chamber. Inanother embodiment, the exhaust system includes an exhaust portcentrally located in the bottom of the chamber and an outlet port forallowing the fluid to exit the rear of the chamber. In anotherembodiment, a location of an exhaust is selectable by a user.

In one embodiment, the chamber has a hood configuration. In anotherembodiment, thermal insulation material is formed on side surfaces ofthe chamber, wherein a thin layer of silicone is bonded to the surfaceof the thermal insulation.

In one embodiment, the chamber has a clamshell configuration in which atop portion of the chamber is connected to a bottom portion of thechamber such that the top portion is opened in order to load the deviceinto the chamber. In another embodiment, thermal insulation material isformed on side surfaces of the chamber, wherein the thermal insulationmaterial is positioned between an outer shell of the clamshell and aninner liner of the chamber.

In one embodiment, the chamber has a front-loader configuration in whicha front portion of the chamber is connected to a rear portion of thechamber such that the front portion is opened in order to load thedevice into the chamber. In another embodiment, thermal insulationmaterial is formed on side surfaces of the chamber, wherein the thermalinsulation material is positioned between an outer shell of thefront-loader and an inner liner of the chamber.

In one embodiment, the fluid is air.

In one embodiment, the temperature chamber further includes a universalmanifold adaptor for directing the temperature-controlled fluid directlyto the device, wherein interchangeable manifolds are attachable to theuniversal manifold to direct the fluid to the device. In one embodiment,a manifold includes a single horizontal tube with multiple small holesfor discharge of the fluid. In another embodiment, a manifold includes aplurality of horizontal tubes with multiple small holes for discharge ofthe fluid. In another embodiment, a manifold has a shower-headconfiguration to provide uniform distribution of the fluid. In anotherembodiment, a manifold includes a baffle system.

In accordance with another aspect of the invention, the invention isdirected to a temperature chamber. The temperature chamber includes achamber in which a device can be located. The chamber is connectable toa temperature-controlled source for providing a temperature-controlledfluid to the chamber to control temperature in the chamber. Thetemperature chamber further includes thermal insulation material formedon side surfaces of the chamber.

In one embodiment, the temperature chamber further includes a universalmanifold adaptor for directing the temperature-controlled fluid directlyto the device. In one embodiment, interchangeable manifolds areattachable to the universal manifold to direct the fluid to the device.In one embodiment, a manifold includes a single horizontal tube withmultiple small holes for discharge of the fluid. In another embodiment,a manifold includes a plurality of horizontal tubes with multiple smallholes for discharge of the fluid. In another embodiment, a manifold hasa shower-head configuration to provide uniform distribution of thefluid. In another embodiment, a manifold includes a baffle system.

In one embodiment, the temperature chamber further includes an exhaustsystem for exhausting the fluid from the chamber. In one embodiment, theexhaust system includes a plurality of exhaust ports connected internalto the chamber and a single outlet port for allowing the fluid to exitthe chamber. In another embodiment, the exhaust system includes aplurality of exhaust ports connected internal to the chamber andmultiple outlet ports for allowing the fluid to exit the chamber. Inanother embodiment, the exhaust system includes an exhaust portcentrally located in the bottom of the chamber and an outlet port forallowing the fluid to exit the rear of the chamber. In anotherembodiment, a location of an exhaust is selectable by a user.

In one embodiment, the chamber has a hood configuration. In anotherembodiment, a thin layer of silicone is bonded to the surface of thethermal insulation material.

In one embodiment, the chamber has a clamshell configuration in which atop portion of the chamber is connected to a bottom portion of thechamber such that the top portion is opened in order to load the devicebeing tested into the chamber. In another embodiment, the thermalinsulation material is positioned between an outer shell of the chamberand an inner liner of the chamber.

In one embodiment, the chamber has a front-loader configuration in whicha front portion of the chamber is connected to a rear portion of thechamber such that the front portion is opened in order to load thedevice into the chamber. In another embodiment, the thermal insulationmaterial is positioned between an outer shell of the front-loader and aninner liner of the chamber.

In one embodiment, the temperature chamber further includes aself-closing cable feed-through module connected to an outer surface ofthe chamber. The module includes a first portion and a second portion,wherein cables are fed through the first and second portions into thechamber in a first position of the module and the first and secondportions form a leak tight seal around the cables in a second positionof the module.

In one embodiment, the fluid is air.

In accordance with another aspect of the invention, the invention isdirected to a temperature control system for controlling temperature ofa device. The temperature control system includes a chamber in which thedevice can be located, a temperature-controlled source connected to thechamber for providing a temperature-controlled fluid to the chamber tocontrol temperature in the chamber, and a universal manifold adaptor fordirecting the temperature-controlled fluid directly to the device.

In accordance with another aspect of the invention, the invention isdirected to a temperature control system for controlling temperature ofa device. The temperature control system includes a chamber in which thedevice can be located, a temperature-controlled source connected to thechamber for providing a temperature-controlled fluid to the chamber tocontrol temperature in the chamber and a self-closing cable feed-throughmodule connected to an outer surface of the chamber. The module includesa first portion and a second portion, wherein cables are fed through thefirst and second portions into the chamber in a first position of themodule and the first and second portions form a leak tight seal aroundthe cables in a second position of the module.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

The foregoing and other objects, features and advantages of theinvention will be apparent from the more particular description ofpreferred aspects of the invention, as illustrated in the accompanyingdrawings in which like reference characters refer to the same partsthroughout the different views. The drawings are not necessarily toscale, emphasis instead being placed upon illustrating the principles ofthe invention.

FIG. 1 is a schematic perspective view of a hood chamber connected to atemperature-controlled air source in accordance with an embodiment ofthe invention.

FIGS. 2A-2E are schematic views of the hood chamber of FIG. 1 with auniversal manifold adapter in accordance with an embodiment of theinvention.

FIG. 3 is a schematic perspective view of the hood chamber of FIG. 1 inaccordance with an embodiment of the invention.

FIG. 4 is a schematic perspective view of the hood chamber of FIG. 1 inaccordance with an embodiment of the invention.

FIGS. 5A and 5B are schematic perspective views of a clamshell chamberconnected to a temperature-controlled air source in accordance with anembodiment of the invention.

FIGS. 6A-6D are schematic views of the clamshell chamber of FIGS. 5A and5B in accordance with an embodiment of the present invention. FIG. 6E isa schematic cross-sectional view of the clamshell chamber in accordancewith an embodiment of the present invention.

FIGS. 7A-C are schematic views of the clamshell chamber of FIGS. 5A and5B with a universal manifold adapter in accordance with an embodiment ofthe invention.

FIGS. 8A and 8B are schematic perspective view of a frontloader chamberconnected to a temperature-controlled air source in accordance with anembodiment of the invention.

FIGS. 9A and 9B are schematic perspective views of the frontloaderchamber of FIGS. 8A and 8B connected to a temperature-controlled airsource in accordance with an embodiment of the invention.

FIGS. 10A and 10B are schematic perspective view of the frontloaderchamber of FIGS. 8A and 8B connected to a temperature-controlled airsource in accordance with an embodiment of the invention.

FIG. 11 is an exploded perspective view of the frontloader chamber ofFIGS. 8A and 8B in accordance with an embodiment of the invention.

FIGS. 12A and 12B are schematic views of the frontloader chamber ofFIGS. 8A and 8B with a universal manifold adapter in accordance with anembodiment of the invention.

FIGS. 13A-13E are schematic views of the frontloader chamber of FIGS. 8Aand 8B in accordance with an embodiment of the invention.

FIGS. 14A-14H are schematic views of a self-closing cable feed-throughmodule in accordance with an embodiment of the invention.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF PREFERRED EMBODIMENTS OF THE INVENTION

According to the invention, a source of temperature-controlled fluidsuch as air, for example, ThermoStream™ model TP04300 or TP04310,manufactured and sold by Temptronic Corporation of Sharon, Mass., isused as an open-loop temperature source for controlling the temperaturewithin a temperature chamber. The source is either attached directly tothe inlet of the temperature chamber or there is a flexible air transferline, i.e., a flexible extender, that connects a source head to thetemperature chamber inlet. The temperature-controlled air exhausts outof the temperature chamber. According to the invention, it is possibleto connect the temperature-controlled air source (one at a time) toseveral different temperature chamber configurations, thus providing aneconomical solution when several different temperature chamberconfigurations are required. The device being tested in the temperaturechamber could be a printed circuit board, mechanical or electronicmodule or any other device requiring thermal test. In addition, thesource can be used as a temperature source for temperature testingvarious devices without attaching to a temperature chamber.

The present invention includes a family of interchangeable temperaturechambers for use with the source, i.e., the open-loop temperaturesource. The features of the chambers include a highly efficient thermalinsulation design that provides overall improvement in thermalperformance by minimizing heat loss and reducing thermal loads, a highlyefficient and field changeable method of air distribution for improvedthermal response for specific testing applications, unique air exhaustsystems for optimizing temperature uniformity, and a self-closing cablefeed-through module.

In a first embodiment of the present invention, the chamber is of a hoodconfiguration. FIG. 1 is a schematic perspective view of a hood chamber12 according to an embodiment of the invention connected to a source 10of temperature-controlled fluid such as air. The source 10 can be, forexample, a ThermoStream™ model TP04300 or TP04310, manufactured and soldby Temptronic Corporation of Sharon, Mass., or other similar device. Thesource 10 is used as the temperature-controlled air source forcontrolling the temperature within the hood chamber 12. A head 14 of thesource 10 attaches directly to the top side of the hood chamber 12 withthree knurled screws. No tools are required to attach the head 14 to thehood chamber 12. The head 14 is attached to the source 10 by a pivotingarm 15.

FIGS. 2A-2E are schematic views of the hood chamber 12 of FIG. 1 with auniversal manifold adapter 20 in accordance with an embodiment of theinvention. The hood chamber 12 is provided with the universal manifoldadapter 20 designed to improve temperature response which reduces timefor completion of a test and, therefore, reduces the test cost. Theuniversal manifold adapter 20 allows interchangeable manifolds to beused to optimize temperature testing. FIGS. 2A-2E illustrate theinterchangeable manifolds. To optimize thermal performance it isdesirable that the temperature-controlled air being supplied by thesource 10 be directed to the device being tested. Conventional thermalenclosures (chambers) simply circulate the air with no method fordirecting the air to the device being tested. With the universalmanifold adapter 20 in the hood chamber 12, a manifold can be added todirect the temperature-controlled air directly to the device beingtested.

The universal manifold adapter 20 allows the air distribution manifoldto be changed to a different configuration if necessary to accommodatechanges in test requirements within the same hood chamber 12. FIG. 2A isa schematic view of the hood 12 with the universal manifold adaptor 20with no manifolds attached thereto. The universal manifold adapter 20has several attachment points (holes) that allow attachment ofinterchangeable manifolds. The manifold can be a single horizontal tube22 with multiple small holes for air discharge. The manifold can be twoor more horizontal tubes 22. FIG. 2B is a schematic view of the hoodchamber 12 with two horizontal tubes 22 with multiple small holes forair discharge attached to the universal manifold adapter 20. Themanifold can be a piece of flexible tube to better direct air on thedevice being tested. The manifold can be a shower head type to provideuniform distribution of temperature-controlled air, or any othermanifold for distribution of temperature-controlled air. FIG. 2C is aschematic view of the hood chamber 12 with a shower-head type manifold24 attached to the universal manifold adaptor 20. FIG. 2D is a schematicview of the hood chamber 12 with a shower-head type manifold 24 attachedto the universal manifold adaptor 20 and exhaust ports 26 at sideportions of the hood chamber 12. FIG. 2E is a schematic view of the hoodchamber 12 with a shower-head manifold 24 and four horizontal tubes 22with multiple small holes for air discharge attached to the universalmanifold adaptor 20.

FIG. 3 is a schematic perspective view of the hood chamber 12 of FIG. 1in accordance with an embodiment of the invention. The thermalinsulation design used for the hood chamber 12 as shown in FIG. 3 allowstemperature changes to occur much faster than with existing approaches.The hood chamber 12 includes a layer of thermal insulation 16 with athin layer of silicone 18 bonded to the surface of the insulation 16.The bonded layer 18 provides needed protection against damage to theinsulation 16. The bonded layer 18 eliminates the need for a metal (orother material) liner inside the hood chamber 12, which would act as athermal load and significantly increase the time to transition betweenset temperatures. The hood chamber 12 includes a handle 23.

FIG. 4 is a schematic perspective view of the hood chamber 12 of FIG. 1in accordance with an embodiment of the invention. In FIG. 4, the hoodchamber 12 is disconnected from the air source 10. An air-in connection25 is used to connect to the source 10.

The hood chamber 12 also incorporates a unique air exhausting system tooptimize temperature uniformity within the test area. All hood chamberconfigurations provide multiple exhaust areas within the test areas toensure uniform air distribution throughout the test area. The exhaustareas are typically located in side portions of the hood chamber 12 butcan be in other locations if necessary to optimize uniformity. As shownin FIG. 2D and FIG. 3, exhaust ports 26 are located at side portions ofthe hood chamber 12. As shown in FIG. 2D and FIG. 3, all of the exhaustports 26 are connected internal to the hood chamber 12 with only oneexit exhaust 28 exiting the hood chamber 12 being used in a selectedconfiguration. Internal route 27 is the route of the exhaust in the hoodchamber 12. The exhaust location is user selectable (first and secondexit ports 28, which are 90 degrees apart) for test operatorconvenience. The hood chamber 12 includes a handle 23.

In an alternative embodiment, the chamber is of a clamshellconfiguration. FIGS. 5A and 5B are schematic perspective views of aclamshell chamber 30 connected to the source 10, in accordance with anembodiment of the invention. The clamshell chamber 30 is top-loaded suchthat the device being tested is loaded into the chamber from the top. InFIGS. 5A and 5B, a source 10 is used as the temperature-controlled airsource for controlling the temperature within the clamshell chamber 30.In FIG. 5A, the head 14 of the source 10 attaches to the side of theclamshell chamber 30 via a flex extender 32 which transfers thetemperature-controlled air from the source 10 to the clamshell chamber30. In FIG. 5A, the head 14 is connected to a pivoting arm 15. In FIG.5B, the output of the source 10 attaches to the side of the clamshellchamber 30 via the flex extender 32 which transfers thetemperature-controlled air from the source 10 to the clamshell chamber30. Attachment of the flex extender 32 to the clamshell chamber 30 ismade with three knurled screws. No tools are required to attach the flexextender 32 to the clamshell chamber 30. The attachment can be made toeither side of the clamshell chamber for convenience.

FIGS. 6A-6E are schematic views of a clamshell chamber 30 of FIGS. 5Aand 5B in accordance with an embodiment of the present invention.Specifically, FIG. 6A is a schematic top view of the clamshell chamber30. FIG. 6B is a schematic rear view of the clamshell chamber 30. FIG.6C is a schematic front view of clamshell chamber 30. FIG. 6D is aschematic view of the clamshell chamber 30 in an open position. FIG. 6Eis a schematic cross-sectional view of the clamshell chamber 30 alongsection E-E of FIG. 6A in accordance with an embodiment of the presentinvention.

The clamshell chamber 30 includes a top portion 34 connected to a bottomportion 36 by a hinges 35. When the clamshell chamber 30 is closed, thetop and bottom portions 34 and 36 are latched together by latches 33.The clamshell 30 includes four cable feed-through openings 41 forconnecting cables to the interior of the clamshell chamber 30 on eachside of the clamshell chamber 30.

The thermal insulation design used for the clamshell chamber 30 and asshown in FIG. 6E allows temperature changes to occur much faster thanwith existing approaches. The clamshell chamber 30 uses thermalinsulation 43, i.e., foam, between the outer shell 37 of the clamshellchamber 30 and the inner liner 39 of the clamshell chamber 30. The innerliner 39 protects the insulation 43 from damage that might result fromfrequent use. The inner liner 39 is thermally decoupled from the outershell 37 to minimize thermal losses and optimize thermal performance,i.e., temperature response and temperature uniformity. In oneembodiment, the inner liner 39 is made of very thin stainless steel tominimize thermal load, but could be other suitable materials.

FIGS. 7A-7C are schematic views of the clamshell chamber 30 of FIGS. 5Aand 5B with a universal manifold adapter 20 in accordance with anembodiment of the invention. The clamshell chamber 30 is provided withthe universal manifold adapter 20 to improve temperature response whichreduces time for completion of a test and, therefore, reduces test cost.The universal manifold adapter 20 allows interchangeable manifolds to beused to optimize temperature testing. To optimize thermal performance itis desirable that the temperature-controlled air being supplied by thesource 10 be directed to the device being tested. Conventional thermalenclosures (chambers) simply circulate the air with no method fordirecting the air to the device being tested. With the universalmanifold adapter 20 in the clamshell chamber 30, a manifold can be addedto direct the temperature-controlled air directly to the device beingtested.

The universal manifold adapter 20 allows the air distribution manifoldto be changed to a different configuration if necessary to accommodatechanges in test requirements within the same clamshell chamber. Theuniversal manifold adapter 20 has several attachment points (holes) thatallow attachment of interchangeable manifolds. The manifold can be asingle horizontal tube 22 with multiple small holes for air discharge.The manifold can be two or more horizontal tubes 22. FIG. 7A is aschematic diagram of the clamshell chamber 30 with two horizontal tubes22 with multiple small holes for air discharge attached to the universalmanifold adapter 20. The manifold can be a piece of flexible tube tobetter direct air on the device being tested. The manifold can be ashower-head type to provide uniform distribution oftemperature-controlled air, or any other manifold for distribution oftemperature-controlled air. FIG. 7B is a schematic diagram of theclamshell chamber 30 with a shower-head type manifold 24 attached to theuniversal manifold adaptor 20. FIG. 7C is a schematic diagram of theclamshell chamber 30 with a shower-head type manifold 24 and fourhorizontal tubes 22 with multiple small holes for air discharge attachedto the universal manifold adaptor 20.

The clamshell chamber 30 also incorporates a unique air exhaustingsystem to optimize temperature uniformity within the test area. Theclamshell chamber 30 includes a mounting platform 38, as shown in FIG.6E on which the user places the device being thermally tested. Thedevice being tested could be a printed circuit board, mechanical orelectronic module or any other device requiring thermal test. Themounting platform 38 is located above an exhaust port 40, which iscentrally located in the bottom of the clamshell chamber 30, so that allof the temperature-controlled air entering the clamshell chamber 30through the air-in port 45 flows over the device being tested before itexits the clamshell chamber 30. This arrangement optimizes temperatureuniformity within the clamshell chamber 30 as well as temperatureresponse, i.e., changing set point temperatures is faster. The exhaustis internally routed to the rear of the clamshell chamber to a rearexhaust 42, as shown in FIGS. 6B and 6E.

In FIGS. 8A, 8B, 9A, 9B, 10A and 10B, a source 10 is used as thetemperature-controlled air source for controlling the temperature withina frontloader chamber 44, in accordance with another embodiment of theinvention. FIGS. 8A and 8B are schematic perspective views of thefrontloader chamber 44 connected to a source 10, in accordance with theinvention. In FIGS. 8A and 8B, the head 14 of the source 10 attaches tothe rear of the frontloader chamber 44 either directly or via a flexextender 32 which transfers the temperature-controlled air from thesource head 14 to the frontloader chamber 44. In FIGS. 8A and 8B, thehead 14 is attached to the source 10 by a pivoting arm 15. FIGS. 9A and9B are schematic perspective views of the frontloader chamber 44connected to a source 10, in accordance with another embodiment of theinvention. In FIGS. 9A and 9B, the output of the source 10 is attachedto the rear of the frontloaded chamber 44 via a flex extender 32 whichtransfers the temperature-controlled air from the source 10 to thefrontloader chamber 44. FIGS. 10A and 10B are schematic perspectiveviews of the frontloader chamber 44 connected to a source 10, inaccordance with another embodiment of the invention. In FIGS. 10A and10B, the frontloader chamber 44 is directly docked to the top of thesource 10.

Referring to FIGS. 8A, 8B, 9A, 9B, 10A and 10B, the frontloader chamber44 includes a front portion 46 connected to a rear portion 48 by a hinge47. When the frontloader chamber 44 is in the closed position, latches49 latch the front and rear portions 46 and 48 together. The frontloaderchamber 44 has cable feed-through 51 for connecting cables to theinterior of the frontloader chamber 44.

FIG. 11 is an exploded perspective view of the frontloader chamber 44 ofFIGS. 8A and 8B in accordance with an embodiment of the invention. Thethermal insulation design used for the frontloader chamber 44, as shownin FIG. 11 allows temperature changes to occur much faster than withexisting approaches. The frontloader chamber 44 uses thermal insulation54 between the outer shell 56 of the frontloader chamber 44 and theinner liner 52 of the frontloader chamber 44. The inner liner 52protects the insulation 54 from damage that might result from frequentuse. However, the inner liner 52 is thermally decoupled from the outershell 56 to minimize thermal losses and optimize thermal performance,i.e., temperature response and temperature uniformity. In oneembodiment, the inner liner 52 is made of very thin stainless steel tominimize thermal load, but could be other suitable materials.

FIGS. 12A and 12B are schematic views of the frontloader chamber 44 witha universal manifold adapter 20 in accordance with an embodiment of theinvention. In FIGS. 12A and 12B, the frontloader chamber 44 is providedwith the universal manifold adapter 20 designed to improve temperatureresponse which reduces time for completion of a test and, therefore,reduces test cost. The universal manifold adapter 20 allowsinterchangeable manifolds to be used to optimize temperature testing. Tooptimize thermal performance it is desirable that thetemperature-controlled air being supplied by the source 10 be directedto the device being tested. Conventional thermal enclosures (chambers)simply circulate the air with no method for directing the air to thedevice being tested. With the universal manifold adapter 20 in thefrontloader chamber 44, a manifold can be added to direct thetemperature-controlled air directly to the device being tested.

The universal manifold adapter 20 allows the air distribution manifoldto be changed to a different configuration if necessary to accommodatechanges in test requirements within the same frontloader chamber 44. Theuniversal manifold adapter 20 has several attachment points (holes) thatallow attachment of interchangeable manifolds. The manifold can be asingle tube 22 with multiple small holes for air discharge. The manifoldcan be two or more tubes 22 with multiple small holes for air discharge.The manifold can be a piece of flexible tube to better direct air on thedevice being tested. The manifold can be a shower-head type manifold toprovide uniform distribution of temperature-controlled air. FIG. 12A, isa schematic diagram of the frontloader chamber 44 with a shower-headtype manifold 24 and four horizontal tubes 22 with multiple small holesfor air discharge attached to the universal manifold adapter 20. Themanifold can be a baffle system 58, as shown in FIG. 12B, in which aplate uniformly distributes temperature-controlled air over a large areaor any other manifold for distribution of temperature-controlled air.

The frontloader chamber 44 also incorporates a unique air exhaustingsystem to optimize temperature uniformity within the test area. FIGS.13A-13E are schematic views of the frontloader chamber 44 in accordancewith an embodiment of the invention. Specifically, FIG. 13A is aschematic view of the frontloader chamber 44 in a closed position. FIG.13B is a schematic view of the frontloader chamber 44 in an openposition. FIG. 13C is a schematic top view of the frontloader chamber44. FIG. 13D is a schematic rear view of the frontloader chamber 44.FIG. 13E is a schematic side view of the frontloader chamber 44. Thefrontloader chamber 44 can include various types of shelving on whichthe user places the device being thermally tested. The device beingtested could be a printed circuit board, mechanical or electronic moduleor any other device requiring thermal test. In the preferred embodiment,as shown in FIGS. 12A, 12B and 13B, the shelving 50 is generally locatedin horizontal planes allowing the temperature-controlled air to flowover the device(s) being tested before it exits the frontloader chamber44. The shelving 50 is attached to the frontloader chamber 44 by amounting device 53. The mounting device 53 has multiple notches, suchthat the shelves 50 can be inserted into the mounting device at multiplelocations or include multiple shelves 50. As shown in FIG. 13D, airenters the rear of the frontloader chamber 44 through the air-in port 61and flows forward to four or more exhaust ports areas 60 located so asto optimize thermal response and temperature uniformity within thefrontloader chamber 44. The exhaust ports areas 60 are shown, in FIG.13B, in the four forward corners but could be at other locations tooptimize thermal performance. The exhaust is internally routed to therear of the frontloader chamber 44 through rear exhaust port 62.

FIGS. 14A-14H are schematic views of a self-closing cable feed-throughmodule 64 in accordance with an embodiment of the invention. Theself-closing cable feed-through module 64 of the invention can be usedin connection with the frontloader chamber 44, as shown in FIG. 14F, inconnection with the clamshell chamber 30, as shown in FIG. 14G, and inconnection with the hood chamber 12, as shown in FIG. 14H, or inconnection with any other standard temperature chamber or other yetundefined chamber configurations.

FIG. 14A is a detailed schematic view of section A of FIG. 14F,illustrating the cable feed-through module 64 used with the frontloaderchamber 44, as an example. The self-closing cable feed-through module 64provides a convenient way for passing cables 66 from the exterior of achamber to the interior of a chamber. The cables 66 referred to can befor any purpose to support the requirements of the device beingtemperature tested in the chamber. The cables 66 connect the devicebeing tested inside the chamber to a test system that is used to sendand/or receive data from the device being tested in the chamber. Theself-closing cable feed-through module 64 is removable from the chamberfor installation of the cables 66. The cables 66 are routed through afirst half 68 and a second half 70 of the self-closing cablefeed-through module 64. The self-closing cable feed-through module 64 isthen installed into the chamber wall and, when installed, the first half68 and the second half 70 close tightly and form a leak-tight sealaround the cables, as shown in FIGS. 14A, 14D and 14E.

The self-closing cable feed-through module 64 is secured in place withclamps 74 as shown in FIGS. 14A and 14E or by any other suitable means.A dry air source 76 provides dry air to self-closing cable feed-throughmodule 64 to ensure that there is no moisture/frost formation duringcold temperature operation. The self-closing cable feed-through module64 is connected to an outer surface of a chamber. When the self-closingcable feed-through module 64 is in an open position, as shown in FIGS.14B and 14C, the first half 68 and the second half are separated byrotating the second half 70 relative to the first half about joint 72.When the self-closing cable feed-through module 64 is in the openposition, the cables 66 are fed through the first and second halves 68and 70 into the chamber. When the self-closing cable feed-through module64 is in a closed position, first and second portions are closed andform a leak tight seal around the cables 66, as shown in FIGS. 14A, 14Dand 14E. As shown in FIGS. 14A, 14B and 14D-14H, self-closing cablefeed-through module 64 includes a pull handle 78. FIG. 14E is across-sectional view along section B-B of FIG. 14D. As shown in FIG.14D, the self-closing cable feed-through module 64 includes insulation80.

While the present invention has been particularly shown and describedwith reference to exemplary embodiments thereof, it will be understoodby those of ordinary skill in the art that various changes in form anddetails may be made therein without departing from the spirit and scopeof the present invention as defined by the following claims.

1. A self-closing cable feed-through module, comprising: a firstportion; a second portion; and a joint for rotating the second portionrelative to the first portion to create an opening between the firstportion and the second portion, wherein cables are feedable through thefirst and second portions into an opening in a chamber in an openedfirst position of the module, the self-closing cable feed-through modulebeing mounted to an outer surface of the chamber, and the first andsecond portions form a leak tight seal around the cables in a closedsecond position of the module.
 2. The self-closing cable feed-throughmodule of claim 1, wherein the self-closing cable feed-through module isremovable from the chamber.
 3. The self-closing cable feed-throughmodule of claim 1, further comprising a dry air source for providing dryair to the self-closing cable feed-through module.
 4. The self-closingcable feed-through module of claim 1, wherein the self-closing cablefeed-through module further comprises insulation.